Mazda CX-5 Suspension Shock Absorber Replacement Guide (2013-2024)
Restore your CX-5's ride quality by learning to spot bad shocks and choosing the right replacement.
- Expect to replace shocks between 50,000 and 75,000 miles; symptoms include a bouncy ride, noises, and uneven tire wear.
- For 2014-2016 models, be aware of a safety recall for loose front strut bolts and a common issue with failing rear shock mounts.
- KYB is a reliable OEM-equivalent choice, while Bilstein offers a firmer, performance upgrade.
- For a DIY front strut replacement, always choose a complete 'quick-strut' assembly to avoid the danger of using a spring compressor.
Is Your CX-5's Ride Not What It Used to Be?
As your Mazda CX-5 ages, the original shocks and struts wear out. This happens so slowly you might not notice it at first. Many owners report their shocks feeling worn between 50,000 and 75,000 miles. Ignoring worn shocks can lead to poor handling, longer stopping distances, and uneven tire wear.
Common Symptoms of Failing Shocks on a CX-5:
🎬 Watch: How to diagnose bad shocks and struts for good.- Bouncy or Harsh Ride: The vehicle bounces multiple times after hitting a bump or feels excessively jarring over rough roads.
- Nose-Diving or Squatting: The front end dips noticeably when you brake, or the rear end squats down when you accelerate.
- Unstable on Turns: The vehicle feels like it's swaying, rolling, or skipping sideways when you go around a corner, especially over bumps.
- Unusual Noises: A clunking, knocking, or popping sound from the suspension area, particularly over bumps or when turning. This could also be related to a TSB on the front stabilizer bushings for 2020-2024 models.
- Visible Fluid Leaks: Oily fluid seen leaking from the body of the shock or strut. Note that some light oil 'sweating' can be normal, but active drips are a sign of failure.
- Cupped Tire Wear: Scalloped or cupped patterns on your tires are a classic sign that the shocks are failing to keep the tires consistently on the road.
Known Issues & Recalls for the Mazda CX-5
Recall (2014-2016 Models): NHTSA Recall 16V203000 was issued because the lower mounting bolts on the front struts can loosen and potentially separate from the steering knuckle, causing a loss of steering. If you have an affected model, ensure this has been addressed.
TSB (2013-2016 Models): Technical Service Bulletin 02-002/18 addresses a knocking or squeaking noise from the front suspension, often caused by the front strut bearing.
Rear Shock Mount Failure (Early Models): Owners of 2013-2016 models have reported the aluminum rear upper shock mount breaking, sometimes suddenly, due to corrosion or stress. 🎬 See how to repair a broken rear upper shock mount. This part was originally sold only with the entire OEM shock, but aftermarket solutions are now available.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks for Your CX-5
You don't need to buy expensive OEM parts to restore your ride. Aftermarket brands offer a range of options from good-as-new performance to a sporty upgrade. Here’s how the common brands stack up for your CX-5.
Brand Tiers:
- Premium / Performance Upgrade (Bilstein): If you want to improve handling and get a firmer, more controlled ride than stock, Bilstein B6 shocks are a popular choice. They are a performance upgrade. For a ride closer to the original feel, look for the Bilstein B4 series.
- OEM-Equivalent (KYB): KYB is widely considered to be an OEM supplier for many Japanese vehicles and is the go-to choice for restoring the original ride and handling of your CX-5. They offer excellent quality and durability that you can trust.
- Value / Economy (Monroe, FCS, PRT): Brands like Monroe, FCS, and PRT offer budget-friendly options. Monroe's quality has received mixed reviews from mechanics, with some noting they don't last as long as KYB or OEM shocks. However, their complete 'Quick-Strut' assemblies can make DIY front-end replacement much easier. FCS and PRT are also value-oriented choices.
Pro Tip: Front Struts vs. Rear Shocks
The front of your CX-5 uses a full strut assembly. If you're doing the job yourself, buying a 'Quick-Strut' or 'Loaded Strut' is highly recommended. This is a pre-assembled unit with the strut, spring, and mount all ready to install. It saves you from the difficult and dangerous task of compressing the old coil spring.
The rear uses a separate shock absorber, which is much simpler to replace.
Cost of Replacing Mazda CX-5 Shock Absorbers
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Shocks/Struts (Parts Only) | $53 - $140 per corner |
| New OEM Shocks/Struts (Parts Only) | $90 - $200+ per corner |
| Shop Labor (All Four Corners) | $280 - $450+ |
| Total Professional Job (All Four Corners) | $850 - $1,200+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace all four shocks at once?
It's highly recommended to replace shocks in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even handling and stability. If one shock has failed, its partner on the other side has endured the same mileage and conditions and is likely near the end of its life too.
Can I replace Mazda CX-5 shocks myself?
Yes, especially the rear shocks. The rear shocks are a straightforward DIY job for someone with basic tools and jack stands. The front struts are more difficult; using a complete quick-strut assembly makes the job feasible for an intermediate DIYer, as it removes the need for a spring compressor.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing your front struts.What's the difference between a shock and a strut?
A shock absorber is just a damper. A strut is a structural part of the suspension that combines the damper (shock) with a coil spring and mount into one unit. Your CX-5 has struts in the front and separate shocks and springs in the rear.
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing shocks?
Yes. Any time you replace front-end suspension components like struts, you should get a professional wheel alignment. This ensures your tires wear evenly and the vehicle handles correctly.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: KD35-28-380B KDY5-28-910C KR27-28-910H KD35-28-910K KA0G-28-910G
The Mazda CX-5 uses MacPherson struts in the front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension with separate shock absorbers and coil springs. Torque specs vary by year and location; for example, on 2013-2016 models, the rear shock's lower 19mm bolt is torqued to 102-123 lb-ft and the upper mount 14mm nuts to 26-30 lb-ft.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mazda CX-5:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your CX-5's Ride Not What It Used to Be?
- Common Symptoms of Failing Shocks on a CX-5:
- Known Issues & Recalls for the Mazda CX-5
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks for Your CX-5
- Brand Tiers:
- Pro Tip: Front Struts vs. Rear Shocks
- Cost of Replacing Mazda CX-5 Shock Absorbers
- Frequently Asked Questions
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